President Kais Saied Moves to Inventory State Properties and…

President Kais Saied has ordered a comprehensive inventory of state properties amidst concerns over unauthorized constructions. Discussions included legislation for allocating state lands to entrepreneurs, selling lands for nominal fees, and revisiting a halted land survey project from the 1970s. The President emphasized the need to address illegal land grabs that undermine state interests.

In a recent meeting with Wajdi Hedhili, the Minister of State Property and Land Affairs, Tunisian President Kais Saied directed the administration to conduct a thorough inventory of all state properties, as they belong to the nation. The announcement was made in a statement from the Presidential office on Tuesday evening.

During the meeting, President Saied presented various instances where luxurious palaces were constructed on state-owned lands without the necessary approvals, specifically in the governorates of Bizerte and Ariana. This has raised concerns, especially as some individuals involved in the illegal appropriation of these properties proclaim their advocacy for legal rights in the media while portraying themselves as victims.

Furthermore, the President touched upon a proposed piece of legislation focused on granting state lands to community-oriented business entrepreneurs. This initiative seeks to stimulate economic growth and generate employment opportunities for the jobless populace.

In addition, President Saied discussed a draft legislation that involves selling lands intended for construction to the “Société Nationale Immobilière de Tunisie” (SNIT) and the “Société de promotion des logements sociaux” ( SPROLS) for a nominal fee of one dinar. This strategy aims to lower acquisition costs and aligns with the government’s social policy objectives.

At the start of the meeting, the President reminisced about a nationwide land survey project initiated in the mid-1970s that was unfortunately discontinued despite available funding. The suspension was indicative of attempts to obscure multiple infractions, particularly regarding agricultural state lands, as per the statement.

Additionally, President Saied pointed out that the subsequent land seizures were often conducted under the pretense of legality, with numerous properties being transferred from public to private ownership for insignificant sums, beginning with a symbolic millime and advancing to a dinar.

In summary, President Kais Saied has initiated a critical assessment of state properties, highlighting improper constructions and advocating for legislation to support community entrepreneurship. These actions reflect a commitment to addressing past violations and improving socio-economic conditions in Tunisia. By addressing these issues, the government aims to enhance legal ownership and reduce exploitation of state lands.

Original Source: www.zawya.com